Building partnerships for avian influenza preparedness in Nicaragua

PURPOSE: CARE's stepwise advocacy strategy forged partnerships with community organizations, international institutions, and Nicaraguan ministries to develop a comprehensive national communications plan for pandemic influenza prevention and response. Remaining untouched by AI in birds, Western nations' preparedness efforts have been uncoordinated and slow. A pandemic turn could cause catastrophic economic loss, reversing development progress for unprepared nations. Comprehensive plans are necessary to mitigate loss of life and livelihoods. METHODS: CARE mapped location and expertise of potential partners established in-country. First approaching NicaSalud, a network of 28 health-focused organizations, CARE outlined the consequences of AI and discussed building a cooperative national effort for preparedness. With NicaSalud's support, CARE facilitated workshops on preparedness and response, engaging local organizations and the United States Agency for International Development (USAID). After merging the USAID AI plan with local expertise and CARE's five-step communication model, the Nicaraguan Ministries of Health and Agriculture agreed to use this framework and involve these partners in broader efforts. RESULTS: USAID funded three capacity building workshops focused on the roles of NGOs and media in communications, preparedness, and response. Activities culminated in a preparedness workshop to finalize a national communications plan involving all partners, the government, military, and first responders. In February 2007, the government held a broader Emergency Preparedness Plan workshop to forge common goals and strategies; CARE and partners provided technical assistance. POLICY IMPLICATIONS: Collaboration led to a streamlined pandemic preparedness approach, greater awareness, and lasting partnerships for future health work. PARTNERS: NicaSalud